Kbr, Inc.
Provides engineering, procurement, construction and technology solutions to government and industry worldwide.
Sr. Radar Payload Systems Engineer
Design, develop, integrate, test, and deliver space-based SAR radar payload systems.
Job Highlights
About the Role
Based in Chantilly, Virginia, the Senior Radar Payload Systems Engineer will design, develop, integrate, test, and deliver radar hardware, software, and system solutions for government contracts. The role focuses on advanced space‑based synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems, including RF front‑end electronics, antenna arrays, receivers, and digital processing. • Define and document RF front‑end electronics and architecture for advanced space‑based SAR radar systems. • Perform engineering tasks to meet operational requirements within imposed constraints. • Conduct link‑budget modeling, trade studies, and analysis to ensure hardware component suitability. • Develop and support SAR and MTI data processing algorithms using Python, MATLAB, or similar languages. • Analyze integration and test data across component, subsystem, payload, and vehicle levels to resolve design issues. • Assess verification and validation of vendor testing at all system levels. • Monitor vendor performance in interface design, documentation, and verification. • Execute functional analyses to confirm system performance criteria are met. • Formulate operations and procedures to address engineering and technical problems. • Provide technical assistance and instruction related to design challenges. • Analyze project requirements and guide system design, operation, maintenance, and modification. • Ensure solutions integrate into viable, complete system configurations.
Key Responsibilities
- ▸rf architecture
- ▸link budget
- ▸data processing
- ▸integration testing
- ▸vendor validation
- ▸system delivery
What You Bring
The position requires on‑site presence with moderate travel (20%‑50%) to contractor facilities, test sites, or launch locations, and offers flexible working hours with standard government support and surge support during integration and launch phases. Candidates must hold an active TS/SCI clearance with a polygraph, possess a bachelor’s degree in engineering, applied physics, or a related STEM field, and have at least eight years of experience in radar space system hardware development, integration, and testing. Essential skills include remote sensing knowledge, proficiency in MATLAB or Python for algorithm development, and familiarity with U.S. government contracting and acquisition regulations. Preferred qualifications include a master’s or Ph.D. in a STEM discipline with a radar focus, ten or more years of relevant experience, and a track record of working across multiple satellite programs or production lines. Demonstrated ability to build trusted client relationships and communicate technical issues clearly to senior government leadership is also valued.
Requirements
- ▸ts/sci
- ▸engineering degree
- ▸radar experience
- ▸matlab
- ▸python
- ▸govt contracting
Benefits
Joining KBR offers involvement in innovative projects at the forefront of engineering, logistics, program management, and cybersecurity. Employees work in a collaborative environment that encourages intellectual stimulation and teamwork, with the chance to make impactful contributions to space defense and national security. KBR provides competitive lifestyle benefits such as a 401(k) plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, flexible spending accounts, disability coverage, paid time off, and flexible work schedules. The company supports career advancement through professional training and development and is committed to an inclusive, zero‑harm culture that values diversity, integrity, and teamwork.
Work Environment
Onsite